Week 3 Modules - PSY10007_Central_Nervous_System_and_Brain

Flashcards about the nervous system and brain imaging techniques.

What are the two main divisions of the nervous system?

The central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system.

What is the main function of afferent nerves?

To carry sensory signals from the external environment to the spinal cord and brain.

What is the role of the autonomic nervous system?

To regulate the body's internal environment, such as heart rate and digestion.

Name two key structures of the limbic system.

The amygdala and the hippocampus.

What is the primary function of the thalamus?

To act as a relay point for sensory messages entering the brain and determine their relative importance.

What role does the prefrontal cortex play?

The prefrontal cortex helps in the process of self control, lying, and uderstanding irony.

What is the significance of neuroplasticity?

It provides a basis for understanding how new skills are developed by repurposing regions of the brain for new skills.

What does Positron Emission Tomography (PET) pick up on?

Signals from radioactive substances that indicate changes in blood flow and glucose metabolism.

What is a significant advantage of fMRI over PET scans?

fMRI provides a higher resolution three dimensional image and picks up more rapid changes in neuronal functioning.

What is the main advantage of Magnetoencephalography (MEG) over fMRI?

MEG has a higher temporal resolution, capable of picking up faster brain processing signals than fMRI.

What is function of the corpus callosum?

A thick bundle of fibers that connects the left hemisphere of the brain to the right hemisphere.

What is a key function of the amygdala?

Drives our fight or flight fear response.

What is the Somatic Nervous System controlling

The communication between nerves, muscles, spinal cord and brain.

What are the four broad anatomical areas of the cerebral cortex?

The frontal lobe, temporal lobe, parietal lobe, and occipital lobe.

What is the function of the association cortex?

This is where information from several brain regions is organised in order for it to be meaningfully interpreted.